I beseech thee for my child whom I begat in my bonds, Onesimus. Once unprofitable to thee, but now more profitable to thee and to me: Whom I sent back: and thou him, that is, my bowels, receive again: read more.
Whom I was wishing to retain to myself, that for thee he might serve me in the bonds of the good news: But without thy judgment I would do nothing; that good might not be as according to necessity, but according to free will. For perhaps therefore he was separated for a time, that thou mightest receive him forever; No more as a servant, but above a servant, a dearly beloved brother, especially to me, and how much rather to thee, also in the flesh, and in the Lord? If therefore thou hold me a participator, receive him in addition as me. And if he injured thee any, or is indebted, charge this to me. I Paul wrote with my hand, I will pay back: that I say not to thee, for thou owest thyself to me also in addition. Yea, brother, may I be profited by thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote to thee, knowing that thou wilt do above what I say to thee.